Beyond the Beach: 10 More Ways to Experience St. John

St. John is a favorite destination for the most judicious beachgoers for good reason. While the swimsuits are drying, here are 10 lesser known but equally appealing ways to experience the island.

1. Soak up the island’s rich history at the Sprauve Public Library. The building has its own history as a plantation great house dating back to the 1750s. This cultural treasure trove contains vintage photos, paintings and articles from centuries past.

2. Go behind the scenes on a St. John Brewers tour. Learn about the brewing process and sample a variety of their tasty sodas and beers. If you don’t already know their story, it’s a dandy.

3. Do you sing or play an instrument? Join us at Sun Dog Cafe’s open mic nights. If you’re lucky, you may get a surprise visit from Kenny Chesney!

4. Volunteer at the Animal Care Center! The ACC’s skeleton staff relies on help with dog walking, grooming, socializing, cleaning and feeding. Fair warning, you may end up taking one home.

5. Get the skinny on all things St. John by touring with a local. Find out where to get the best bushwacker, best place to snorkel with sea turtles and all the other hidden gems only an insider knows.

6. Our annual events draw visitors from all over the world. Participate or volunteer at Carnival, Beach to Beach Swim, Paddle the Park, Folklife Festival or 8 Tuff Miles and meet new people.

7. Need to burn some calories in a vacation kind of way? We’ve got you covered with antigravity yoga, pilates, meditation and SUP yoga lessons! If you’re a tennis fan, you have access to free public courts near the car barge dock or the Westin rents artificial turf courts.

8. How would you like your very own private cabana on the beach? Well, now you can drink and dine like royalty at Honeymoon Beach.

9. Discover new flavors by sampling authentic West Indian fare at Miss Lucy’s. Dining by the sea is a bonus!

10. Bonefishing in the Virgin Islands? Yes! As well as snook, permit, jacks, mackerel, bonita, snappers, barracuda, sharks and more!

By all means, get your fill of our powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Then get out there and explore all that St. John has to offer. There’s much to see!